Seychelles Map / Geography of Seychelles / Map of Seychelles - Worldatlas.com The Republic of Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands located in the Indian Ocean , northeast of Madagascar . Pre- European colonization the islands were known by Arab navigators on trading voyages, but were never inhabited. Eventually Seychelles was settled by France in the 18th century, but it wasn't long before the British fought for control. A lengthy struggle between France and Great Britain for the islands ended in 1814, when they were ceded to the latter. Although the new governor to the islands was British , he governed according to French rules, and allowed previous French customs to remain intact. Slavery was completely abolished in 1835, and the island nation subsequently began to decline as exportation decreased. The anti-slavery stance was taken very seriously by the British government, and conditions started improving when it was realized that coconuts could be grown with less labour. In the late 19th century, Seychelles became a place to exile troublesome political prisoners, most notably from Zanzibar, Egypt , Cyprus and Palestine .

Independence for the islands came in 1976, after the Seychelles People's United Party was formed and led by France-Albert Rene, campaigning for socialism and freedom from Britain . Socialism was brought to a close with a new constitution and free elections in 1993. President France-Albert Rene, who had served since 1977, was re-elected in 2001, but stepped down in 2004. Vice President James Michel took over the presidency and in July 2006 was elected to a new five-year term. Upon independence in 1976, economic growth has steadily increased, led by the tourism sector and tuna fishing. In the past few years, the government has also created incentives for foreign investments. Per capita, Seychelles is the most indebted country in the world and currently had a population of 90,024. See Also Seychelles Africa | Indian Ocean Seychelles Africa Map of the Seychelles Where is Seychelles? Have you ever wondered what tasted Africa but one class above?

Well, take your map point just an iota below the equator some 1500 km to the southeastern coast of the African continent. Congratulations. You’ve just spotted the Seychelles islands. The Seychelles islands have the perfect geographic location to shame any other tropical island. Its geographical location makes of this insular state without contest one of the pearls of the Indian Ocean, with one of the most preserved fauna and flora of the whole world. You may be asking yourself what makes the Seychelles so distinct from the rest of Africa. Well, the answer is everything. Seychelles Demography To begin with, with a population of only 90,024 (2014), the Seychelles is demographically the smallest of all the African states. Out of its 155 islands, the archipelago of 459 square kilometers has about 90% of its population staying on the island of Mahé which is home to the capital city Victoria. La Digue and Praslin accommodate for the rest of the inhabitants.The other remaining islands are uninhabited or declared nature reserve. The population density of the Seychelles is therefore very small.

You will find it astonishing that the vast majority of its soft sandy beaches are almost unfrequented giving the sensation of lost paradise. Seychelles Granite blocks The islands of the Seychelles are either of granitic or coral origins. As a matter of fact, the Seychelles granitic islands are considered the oldest and hardest granite in the world. A walk on the beaches will reveal enormous blocks of granite,that when coupled with the azure of the sea and the green of the flora, increase your sensation of ecstasy. Seychelles history Tower Clock in Vicotria- Mahé Seychelles has the typical historical blueprint as the majority of islands in the Indian Ocean. Situated on the travel route of merchants of the past European golden era, Seychelles was a transit point between Africa and Asia. It is of no wonder that Seychelles saw itself first colonised by the French in 1756 when a stone was laid by Captain Nicolas Morphey. The islands were named after Jean Moreau de Séchelles, Louis XV’s Minister of Finance.The British later contested control over the island. State House Victoria Seychelles The buildings and infrastructures are perfect vestiges of its past colonial era.

The State house and the district tower clock both situated in Victoria are perfect example. Seychelles Culture The colonial past can also be traced in Seychelles culture which is a mix of French and African (Creole) influences. Although having French and English as official languages, Seychellois Creole (Kreol), a creole language derived from French and African tongues, is the native language. English and French are also commonly used. English remains the language of government and commerce. The Seychellois are beautiful people with the majority of the population being racially mixed which is the same as the surrounding islands of La Réunion, Mauritius, Mayotte and Rodrigues. Seychellois boy carrying a coco fesses Seychellois are well mannered and polite people. They are very warm welcoming to visitors and will without hesitation invite you to share their meal. Seychelles food Gastronomy is one of the major aspects of your visit to the Seychelles. If you are a ‘fin’ gourmet, you will find restaurants which will do nothing except arouse your taste buds.

You will find whatever type of food you are looking for in the Seychelles- even Chinese food, since the Chinese make up about 1% of the population. Inner Indian Ocean islands have their own type of cuisine which is distinctive from the rest of the African continent. Seychellois cuisine is not to be excluded from the custom. Seychellois food Its cuisine is a unique mélange of Indian, African and French food. Hot and spicy food is generally preferred. Fish is ubiquitous in the Seychelles kitchen. Freshly caught it is savored grilled, with rice and eggplant or pumpkin puree. Hot pepper sauce, which is part of the Seychelles habits is to be eaten with moderation! Specialities of the Seychelles are the “ladob”, shark chutney, “bourgeoise grille” and the famous “kat-katbanane”. For dessert, enjoy the many tropical fruits. Seychelles accommodation The most fascinating fact about the Seychelles is that regardless of nationality of the visitor, no visas are required for entry. This makes the Seychelles a unique travel destination. Unlike some African countries Seychelles enjoys amazing peace.

Peace and tranquility is what every traveler research for their holiday trips. And this is exactly what the Seychelles has to offer to you. Seychelles has the lowest criminality level of Africa. Personal safety is a major factor to take into consideration while planning your holiday. One of the best tips while choosing your holiday destination is to choose the safest place for you and your family. There is a wide range of hotels you can choose from when planning your trip. From 5 star hotels to villas or guest houses, chose whatever location you prefer. From the slow motion life of Victoria, to time freezed sea coasts and mountain foots. The Seychelles offers you accommodation according to your budget. Seychelles Islands nature reserves Seychelles is home to several national parks and nature reserves. At Mahé, the highlight of the Seychelles archipelago is protected by the Morne Seychellois National Park. At Praslin National Park, Vallée de Mai is a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. National Park- Coco De Mer. Praslin, Seychelles This site, unique to the Seychelles, has a forest of Coco de Mer, also called coco fesses.

The fins of these coconuts shade several rare plants and many birds. At La Digue, the reserve hosts in a lush tropical vegetation an endemic species of bird called the “red collared widow-bird.” Several islands are located in the immediate vicinity of Mahé or Praslin. Sainte-Anne and Cerf Island are next to Mahé. Cousin, Cousine and Curieuse are close to Praslin. In these small islands, nature rules, and marine parks are home to a beautiful underwater world. Silhouette, Bird Island, Denis Island and Fregate are islands near Mahé worth seeing. These are small paradise where hotels are scarce and the beaches paradisiacal. Live on these pristine islands of Seychelles giant tortoises. These animals are the endemic emblem of the island. Through your visit, do not try to disturb their routine. Seychellois dancing at night fall At nightfall, the music of Seychelles launches its rhythms in hotels inviting you to dance in a friendly atmosphere, in these extraordinary islands. Are you under the spell of a trip to the Seychelles?

Seychelles - Country Profile - Nations Online Project Location map of the Seychelles This is a virtal guide to the Seychelles, an archipelago located 1,600 km (1,000 mi) east of the African coast in the Indian Ocean at the crossroad between Asia and Africa. The Seychelles are one of the world's most beautiful tropical islands destination. The archipelago consists of 116 islands spread over 1 million km² of the western Indian Ocean, northeast of Madagascar , with a total land area of 444 km², making the island nation just about the size of Andorra , or 2.5 times the size of Washington, DC . About half of the islands are of granitic origin, with narrow coastal strips and central ranges of hills rising up to 900 m at Morne Seychellois, the highest peak in the archipelago. The other half are coral atolls, many of them uninhabited. The island nation has a population of 92,000 (in 2015), capital city is Victoria on Mahé, the largest island.

Spoken languages are Seychellois Creole 90%, English and French (all official). Time Zone: SCT - Seychelles Times Local Time = UTC +4h Capital City: Victoria (pop. 24 500) Government: Independence: June 29, 1976 (from UK). Geography: Location: Eastern Africa, group of about 115 islands scattered over 1.3 million square kilometers of the western Indian Ocean, northeast of Madagascar. Area : 455 km² (176 sq km) Major Islands: Mahe, Praslin and La Digue. Terrain: About half of the islands are of granitic origin, with narrow coastal strips and central ranges of hills rising to more than 900 m; highest point: Morne Seychellois at 905 m. The other half are coral atolls, many uninhabitable. Climate: Tropical marine; humid; cooler season during southeast monsoon (late May to September); warmer season during northwest monsoon (March to May) . People: Ethnic groups: Creole (European, Asian, and African).

Religions: Catholic 86.6%, Anglican Church 6.8%, other Christians 2.5%, other 4.1%. Languages : Official languages are Seychelles Creole (kreol seselwa), English, and French. Literacy: between 60-80%. Natural resources: Fish, copra, cinnamon trees. Agriculture products: Coconuts, cinnamon, vanilla, sweet potatoes, cassava (tapioca), bananas; broiler chickens; tuna fish. Industries: Fishing; tourism; processing of coconuts and vanilla, coir (coconut fiber) rope, boat building, printing, furniture; beverages.

Exports - commodities: canned tuna, frozen fish, petroleum products (reexports) Exports partners: France 18.2%, UK 17.9%, Mauritius 10%, Japan 9.2%, Italy 7.8%, Spain 4.5% (2015) Imports - commodities: machinery and equipment, foodstuffs, petroleum products, chemicals, other manufactured goods Imports - partners: Saudi Arabia 22.5%, Spain 11.1%, Singapore 7.4%, China 4.5%, South Africa 4.1%, France 4% (2015) Currency: Seychelles Rupee (SCR) Note: External links will open in a new browser window. Official Sites of Seychelles Seychelles Seychelles in Africa Seychelles – officially the Republic of Seychelles, is spanned an island nation is an archipelago of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, approximately 1,500 kilometers (932 miles) east of the African continent, in the northeast of the island of Madagascar.

seychelles island Other nearby island countries include Zanzibar and territories in the west, Mauritius and Réunion to the south, Comoros and Mayotte to the southwest. Seychelles, with an estimated population of 86 525, has the smallest population of any African state. It also has the highest index for human development in Africa. Archipelago in the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles, one of the most beautiful places on earth. The postcard beach, it’s there. Islands The three main islands are: -Mahe, where the capital city of Victoria -Praslin Arrive By air The arrival in the Seychelles is at the airport of Mahe. It is located 15 km from Victoria. The bus routes provide easy access to other parts of the island. The car rental companies are all gathered in the lobby of the airport. seychelles For connections between the islands. By Bus For connections within the larger islands. In March 2005, a bus ticket three Seychelles rupees (0.45 euros) costs and is valid throughout the trip, make a stop or the entire row.

On the island of Mahe bus routes are Victoria Terminus, the smallest capital in the world. By boat It is the dream of exploring the Seychelles on a cruising sailboat with a group of friends. For small grants, you can also go hiking with discovering seabed snorkel (snorkeling). One can also inter-Iceland-boat. It’s cheaper than flying. By car The advantage of traveling by car is to take advantage of the different views easily. You can Rentals around € 33 a day on the Internet with free shipping and insurance. A good place that offers the car in Mahe and Praslin: Car rental rentacar Seychelles (currently on Mahé and Praslin). There are no rentals on other islands. seychelles africa Food The Seychelles cuisine is inspired by the British kitchen. The staple food is fish curry: fish sauce with rice. There are also chicken curry and grilled fish. Flora and fauna The environmental legislation is very strict, and undergo any tourism project needs an environmental assessment and a lengthy consultation process with the public and environmentalists. The Seychelles is a global leader in sustainable tourism.

The end result is what sustainable development is a natural environment intact and stable, which attracts financially strong visitors (150,000 in 2007) instead of mass tourism in the short term. Since 1993, a law guaranteeing the right of citizens to a clean environment and at the same time required to protect this environment. The country holds a record for the largest share of acreage under protection, or nearly 50% of the total natural land of the Seychelles. Like many other fragile ecosystems island, saw Seychelles biodiversity loss in the early history of mankind, including the disappearance of most of the giant tortoises from the granitic islands, felling of coastal forest and mid-level, and extinction of species like the fox flanked white eye , parakeet, the Seychelles, the Seychelles Black Terrapin and the saltwater crocodile. However, the extinctions were far less than on the islands like Mauritius or Hawaii, in part to a shorter period of human occupation (since 1770). Today, the Seychelles for their success in the protection of flora and fauna is known.

The rare Seychelles Black Parrot, the national bird of the country is now protected. The granitic islands of Seychelles are home to about 75 endemic plant species, with 25 or so other species in the Aldabra group. Particularly well known is the Coco de Mer, a palm that grows only on the islands of Praslin and nosy neighbors. Sometimes referred to as the double “coconut resembles the buttocks of a woman” mother love “because of the shape of its fruit, the bark is removed, a present,” produced the coco de mer seed pods of the world’s heaviest. The jellyfish tree is to be found in a few places today. This strange and ancient plant has all the efforts to promote he resisted. Other unique plant species include the Wright Rothmannia Annae Gardenia found only on Aride Iceland Special Reserve. seychelles landscape view seychelles beach The freshwater crabs of the genus is endemic to the Seychelles Seychellum granite, and 26 other species of crab and five species of hermit crabs live on the islands. The Aldabra giant tortoise now meets most of the Seychelles.

The population of Aldabra, the largest in the world. These unique reptiles can be found in captive herds. It was reported that the granitic islands of Seychelles supported various types of Seychelles giant tortoises, the status of different populations is currently unclear. There are many varieties of orchids unique to the islands. Seychelles is home to some of the largest seabird colonies in the world. Life in the sea around the islands, particularly coral islands most remote, can be spectacular. More than 1,000 fish species have been recorded. As the use of rifles and dynamite for fishing through the efforts of local conservationists in the 1960s, was banned wild animals is not afraid of divers and snorkelers. Coral bleaching in 1998 has unfortunately damaged most reefs, but some reefs show healthy recovery (Silhouette Iceland, for example). Although oil companies have explored the waters around the islands, no oil or gas was found.

In 2005 an agreement with US-based Petro Quest was signed, the rights to explore approximately 30,000 km2 of islands around Constant, Topaz, Farquhar and Coëtivy 2014. Seychelles imported oil from the Gulf in the form of refined petroleum derivatives amounting to about 5,700 barrels per day (910 m3 / d). In recent years, oil from Kuwait and Bahrain has been imported. Seychelles imports three times more oil than what is necessary for internal use, because to call it again exporting surplus oil in the form of a bunker on ships and aircraft on Mahe. There is no refinery capacity in the islands. Imports of oil and gas, distribution and re-exports are the responsibility of the Seychelles Petroleum (Sepec), while oil production is the responsibility of the Seychelles National Oil Company (SNOC). seychelles sunset The most important natural resources of the Seychelles are fish, copra, cinnamon, coconut, salt and iron. Buy Silver The local currency is the Seychelles Rupee. The tourists have to pay an amount in foreign currency (hotels, excursions, some restaurants).

The currency you visited Seychelles rupees. If you want to convert your currency into rupees, it’s important to the bank, which made the going exchange with the receipt. Most institutions receive tourists take credit cards. Do you prefer this payment method to avoid that too many rupees in his pocket. The duty-free area of ​​the airport does not take rupees. Memoirs Great souvenir is the coconut buttocks. This is a coconut reminiscent of the buttocks. Warning: You can delete an export certificate to Customs with a coconut buttocks. seychelles islands Seychelles Map Seychelles Map Where is Seychelles ? Seychelles is an archipelago located at Indian Ocean. Seychelles has 491 kilometers of coastline. Natural resources of Seychelles include cinnamon trees, copra and fish. The population of Seychelles as per the census of 2007 July was 81,895. The people residing at Seychelles are known as Seychellois. The Seychelles political map exhibits the location, boundaries, national capital, major towns with specific symbols.

Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) Seychelles was visited by explorers as early as AD 200, who arrived from Borneo, and later by Arab merchants who traded in the region around AD 850. However, the island remained uninhabited for many centuries. English tradesmen stopped on the island in 1609, finding it populated only by animals. Later, when nearby Madagascar and Mauritius were settled, there was an increase in activity throughout the region. The French made their way from their colony on Mauritius during the Seven Years' War, claiming the island for France in 1756. Though the island was primarily used for its natural resources, it was along the trade route to India, and used to cultivate spices. After the French Revolution, the settlement on Seychelles began to separate themselves from Mauritius, under the leadership of Jean-Baptiste Queau de Quincy in 1794. The British fought for control of the island, but Quincy remained in power until 1810. Along with Mauritius, Seychelles was made a crown colony under British control.

The British conflicted with the colony on the issue of slavery, which the colonists relied upon for their labor, but the British leadership had abolished. Seychelles became a separate crown colony from Mauritius in 1903. World War I was difficult for Seychelles, which had trouble importing necessary goods, and the colonists began to seek separation from Britain. Seychelles gained independence in 1976, becoming a republic within the Commonwealth. Neighboring Countries : Madagascar, Zanzibar, Mauritius, Comoros, Reunion, and Rodrigues are some of the nearest islands to Seychelles. Major Cities : Victoria (capital) Geography : Seychelles is an island nation in the Indian Ocean, off the southeastern coast of Africa. The archipelago of Seychelles is made up of about 115 islands in total. There are 42 main islands, the largest of which are Mahe, Praslin, Silhouette Island, La Digue, Curieuse, Felicite, and Fregate. These islands are called granitic, meaning they are made of granite rock, and are the only one's of this kind found on Earth.

There are also many coral islands within Seychelles, grouped into the Amirantes, Farguhar, and Aldabra island groups. The coral islands are mostly flat, without fresh water, and as such are not inhabited by many people. The highest point in the archipelago is Morne Seychellois, which stands 905 meters (2,969 feet) above sea level, and is located on Mahe. The main rivers on the island are fairly short, and include Point Conan, Rochon, Cascade, Bougainville, and Barbarons Rivers. Points of Interest : The beaches of Seychelles are some of its greatest attractions, with sandy shores, warm waters, and beautiful scenery. With the remote destination of Seychelles, the beaches remain in their natural state and are often uncrowded. There are many water sports available on the islands, including sailing, scuba diving, and fishing. There are places to take a glass-bottomed boat tour, and view the sea life in a unique way. Praslin National Park's Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to a palm forest, including the endemic Coco de Mer, with the largest seeds in the world.

The park is also home to a variety of native species, including the black parrot, tiger chameleon, and varieties of geckos. More wildlife can be viewed at Aldabra Atoll, which is home to giant land tortoises, tiger sharks, and manta rays. This coral atoll is the world's largest. The capital, Victoria, features the Natural History Museum, and architecture including a clock tower, markets, and an inner harbor. Mahe also has resorts, casinos, and nightlife. Transportation : The international airport in Seychelles is near the capital, Victory, and is called Seychelles International. The airport offers service to South Africa, Ethiopia, Kenya, Emirates, Qatar, and nearby Mauritius, among a few other destinations. The only other option for transportation into Seychelles is boat, but this is a very limited option. Between the islands, there are flights between Mahe and Praslin, or Mahe and several smaller islands, like Bird and Fregate. Helicopters and boats can be chartered for these short trips as well. Ferries run fairly frequently between Mahe and Praslin, which is a less expensive option than flights.

Roads on Mahe and Praslin are narrow and winding, but cars are an essential method of travel on the island, allowing visitors to see the whole island. There are also taxis, but this can be a more expensive option than renting a car. Buses are another option, with frequent service around the island. Bicycles can be a good way to explore the islands. ACOD~20140103 Location of Africa » Seychelles Location of Africa » Seychelles Location of Africa » Seychelles description: Archipelago in the Indian Ocean, northeast of Madagascar Advertisement Seychelles Seychelles COUNTRY OVERVIEW LOCATION AND SIZE. The Seychelles are a group of islands in the Indian Ocean about 925 kilometers (575 miles) northeast of Madagascar. The country consists of 115 small islands with a total land area of 455 square kilometers (176 square miles) and a total coastline of 491 kilometers (305 miles). The territory of the Seychelles is about 2.5 times the size of Washington, D.C.

The country consists of 2 groups of islands, the largest being the Mahe group in the northern part of the archipelago, comprised of 40 granite rock islands (the largest are Mahe, Praslin, La Digue, Silhouette, Fregate, and North) with hilly interiors rising up to 900 meters (2,953 feet). The other group consists of about 65 small coral islands spread over a wide area of ocean south of the Mahe group. Mahe Island, with a total area of 153 square kilometers (59 square miles) is home to the capital city Victoria (pop. 40,000, 1997). The strategic importance of the Seychelles group is derived from its location in the Indian Ocean on the sea route from South Africa to the Indian subcontinent, which was a major route before the Suez Canal was opened in 1869. POPULATION. The population of the Republic of Seychelles was estimated at 79,326 in July 2000, an increase of around 16 percent from 68,598 in 1987.

In 2000 the birth rate stood at 17.99 per 1,000 and the death rate at 6.74 per 1000. The estimated population growth rate is 0.49 percent, a low rate attributed mainly to the high emigration rate of 6.3 per 1,000. Life expectancy at birth is 64.87 years for males and 76.12 years for females. It is expected that the country's population will reach 100,000 by 2020. The diverse population is composed of 3 major ethnic groups: French settlers, freed slaves of African descent, and Indians brought to work on the plantations. Creoles (mixture of Asian, African, and European) make up 89.1 percent of the population, Indians make up 4.7 percent, and Malagasy (from Madagascar) make up 3.1 percent. There are also small minorities of Chinese (1.6 percent) and European (1.5 percent) origin.

Some 29 percent of the population is below the age of 14, and 6 percent is older than 65. A majority of the country's inhabitants, 56.1 percent, lives in urban areas. Limited natural resources and scarce land forces the government of the Seychelles to limit inflow of immigrants and to control population growth. In the 1980s there was sizable emigration of the people from islands due to economic difficulties and political instability. In the early 1990s many of them returned home when the Seychelles government significantly liberalized the political and economic environment and allowed opposition parties. SERVICES TOURISM. Since the 1970s, tourism has dominated the national economy as its single most important sector, providing direct employment (hotels and restaurants) for 3,829 people or 12.4 percent of the workforce, according to Seychelles in Figures 2000 . Including secondary employment, these figures rise to 9,797 people or 32 percent of the workforce.

In 1998 an estimated 128,000 tourists visited the country, contributing SRe584 million (US$111 million) to the economy. The island nation offers a total of over 4,700 hotel rooms. The Seychelles promotes itself as the "Dream Destination," offering up-market services to international visitors seeking the charms of a tropical island paradise, mainly from France, Germany, and Britain. The government plans to redefine the national tourism strategy in 2001. FINANCIAL SERVICES. The services sector was controlled by the state throughout the 1980s, until the economic and financial liberalization in the 1990s. The Central Bank of Seychelles (CBS) is fairly efficient according to international standards, although it lacks independence from the government. The largest local bank is the Development Bank of Seychelles. In 1999 there were also 4 international banks in the country: Barclays Bank (UK), Banque Française Commerciale-Ocean Indien (France), Bank of Baroda (India), and Habib Bank (Pakistan).

In 1995 the government established the Seychelles International Business Authority (SIBA) and opened the Seychelles International Trade Zone (SITZ) in an attempt to develop the country as an international "offshore" financial-services center. RETAIL. The retail sector is developed to meet the demands of foreign tourists. This sector is dominated by small and medium-sized retail shops where visitors and local consumers can buy a wide variety of products and souvenirs. DEPENDENCIES Seychelles has no territories or colonies. BIBLIOGRAPHY Gabbay, Rony, and Robin N. Ghosh. Economic Development in a Small Island Economy: A Study of the Seychelles Marketing Board. Perth (Australia): Academic Press International, 1992. Economist Intelligence Unit. Country Report: Seychelles. London: Economist Intelligence Unit, November 2000. Scarr, Deryck. Seychelles since 1770: History of a Slave and Post-Slavery Society. Trenton, NJ: Africa World Press, 2000. Seychelles International Business Authority. Seychelles: Your International Business Centre. < .

Accessed July 2001. Statistics and Database Administration Section MISD. Seychelles in Figures 2000. < . Accessed July 2001. U.S. Central Intelligence Agency. The World Factbook, 2000. < . Accessed June 2001. —Alfia Abazova, MILS Victoria. MONETARY UNIT: Seychelles rupee (SRe). There are coins of 1, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents. One Seychelles rupee equals 100 cents. CHIEF EXPORTS: Fish, cinnamon bark, copra, petroleum products (re-exports). CHIEF IMPORTS: Machinery and equipment, food products, petroleum products. GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT: US$590 million (purchasing power parity, 1999 est.). BALANCE OF TRADE: Seychelles Islands Seychelles Seychelles Islands located in the Indian Ocean, is a group of about 115 small islands, the main islands are Mah�, Praslin and La Digue.

Victoria is the capital of Seychelles islands located in Mah�. It is located about 1600 km from the east coast of Africa. The three main islands are all out of granite, the others are coral atolls. The first who visited the island were the Arabs. In 1505 the island appeared on the Portuguese charts, Mah� de Labourdonnais, who was been the French Governor of Mauritius island, sent in 1742 an expedition to the Seychelles islands. The French took possession of Seychelles islands 1756. From this date until 1903 the Seychelles colony was a dependency of Mauritius, which passed from the French to the British in 1814. In August 1903 Seychelles became a separate British Crown colony. In 1976 the Seychelles became an independent republic within the Commonwealth. The president holds executive power, the national assembly controls the legislation, it comprises of 34 members.

President and National assembly are subject to election every five years.The languages spoken in Seychelles are English, French and Seselwa Creol.Seychelles islands is a paradise, it has been preserved as natural as possible with its flora and fauna, white sand beach and a blue lagoon. North Island, Seychelles Islands - Indian Ocean View the North Island Layout: Island Layout Images View Villa Layout and Schematic: Villa Design NORTH ISLAND RATES: North Island Rates NORTH ISLAND RESORT - SEYCHELLES ISLANDS North Island is one of the forty granitic islands of the Seychelles, which are located around the two main islands of Mahé and Praslin. Because North Island has long been uninhabited, is extremely fertile, and has an abundance of fresh water, the new owners came up with a concept which they have called, "Noah's Ark". The plan is to turn back the island's environmental clock two hundred years through rehabilitation and by re-introducing many of the critically endangered Seychelles species slowly over time, so that visitors are able to enjoy viewing some of this endangered wildlife.

In this same way, North Island is a sanctuary for its guests - those who seek an unspoiled tropical haven of peace and tranquility. With its four beaches, located at each end of the compass, and the small number of guests accommodated at any time, the island ensures a private and wonderful tropical beach and island experience. North Island is outside of the cyclone belt of the Indian Ocean, making it a safe and enjoyable year-round destination. The "barefoot luxury Robinson Crusoe" development on North Island is unashamedly aimed at providing the very best in privacy, location, accommodation, services and facilities to the most discerning and privileged world travelers. The island is larger than Monte Carlo, yet only has 12 guest villas! Be assured that the staff on North Island will go to every length to pamper you, to enrich you and to rejuvenate your soul. But the essence of North Island remains one of sustainable, ecologically sensitive utilization os a precious, natural treasure.

Accommodation For images of North Island, click North Island Photos North Island's architect's, Silvio Rech and Lesley Carstens, and a team of craftsmen from Africa, Zanzibar, Bali and the Seychelles, have created a fusion of cultures and architectural styles to produce a "Robinson Crusoe luxury paradise" unlike any other. The extensive facilities include 11 incredible air-conditioned guest villas, each with its own private pool, a central dining room, lounge, kitchenette and library. There is also a beautiful health spa and gym, a breathtakingly lovely swimming pool hewn into a granitic outcrop and a "Tropical Heat" Sunset Bar tucked away on Grande Anse on the western side of the island. The 11 guest villas have been lovingly handcrafted on the island from wood, local stone and glass, with thatched "alang alang" roofs. With a footprint of over 450 square metres, each villa is completely self-contained and comprises a luxuriously proportioned bedroom, a writing and change-room area with a huge en-suite bathroom, a large marble bath and an outside shower for those who can't get enough of the fresh island air.

Air-conditioning, overhead "punkah punkah" fans and fully retracting sliding windows (for 270-degree views) provide a pampering environment for the enjoyment of the balmy ocean breezes. An additional study or bedroom is equipped with a DVD/CD system, internet access, and can also be arranged to serve as accommodation for children. The kitchen leads off the expansive sun-deck and covered lounge area. Guests can elect to enjoy their meals in their villa or in the Island's main dining area. A private plunge pool and sala completes the exclusive sanctuary within a sanctuary. A full butler service catering for your every need includes in-villa meals or delicious picnics on secluded beaches. A lounge, dining room and library, scenically located health spa and gym, world-class dive centre, and a rim-flow swimming pool are all built into a granitic outcrop. A sunset bar and restaurant are tucked away on the western beach of the island. Activities include mountain biking, gym, guided walks, snorkelling, fishing, boating, sea kayaking, and scuba diving.

Spa and Activities Some of the possible activities possible on North Island include swimming and sunbathing on 4 private beaches, excellent snorkelling right off the beaches, and fantastic reef and wall scuba diving with visibility up to 40 metres! Enjoy massage and health therapy in the Spa or in the comfort of your private villa. Visit the gymnasium, take nature walks with the resident ecologist, or go birding with the resident naturalist. Other activities include deep sea fishing, windsurfing, guided sea kayaking, hobie sailing, yacht charters, boating trips to explore neighboring islands, mountain biking, and golf at the 18-hole Lamuria Resort on Praslin Island (a private helicopter charter will be arranged at extra cost). Dining and Cuisine Besides its exceptional beauty, North Island has long been renowned for its fertility and also for the richness of the fishing grounds wherein it nestles. It is not surprising therefore, that North Island’s lodge should draw upon these exceptional natural resources. The cuisine is based on the very finest natural products lovingly prepared in a sumptuous array of exotic dishes.

The cuisine of North Island is based on the diversity and cultural influences which, in part, make up the Seychellois Creole flavour. Culinary aspects of Seychelles, France and southern Indian spices are combined with the organic resources of North Island and the abundance on offer from the Indian Ocean. Balanced together with simplicity, expect a feast that will awaken all of your senses. There is a “no menu” concept of dining on North Island and the chef, David Godin, speaks to each guest, explains the North Island cuisine concept, finds out personal food preferences and then develops the menus daily around this information. During your stay on North Island, you can be sure of a memorable culinary experience, complimented by an impressive cellar with some of the world’s great wines and champagnes. Please let us know well in advance of any special dietary requirements. The "Noah's Ark" Program "We bought North Island in recognition of its potential as a Noah's Ark; a sanctuary where natural habitats could be rehabilitated and where critically endangered Seychelles fauna and flora could be reintroduced and given a place to regenerate?. On this beautiful island we built an exclusive luxury lodge and have, where possible, utilised materials reaped from the rehabilitation process.

In doing so, we have paid particular attention to capturing the true essence of North Island, a rare experience in harmony with the environment." Wilderness Safaris initially became involved in the purchase of North Island specifically because of the potential for the island to become a Noah's Ark sanctuary where natural habitats and functioning ecosystems could be restored and where endangered Seychelles fauna and flora could be re-established. The concept and establishment of an eco-sensitive lodge on the island was preceded by years of research and coordination with government conservation bodies, with all parties committed to ensuring the protection of the natural environment and biodiversity. Ten years down the line, the conscientious pursuit of such policies is now reaping its just rewards.

Question: In which ocean are the Seychelles located?
Answer: Indian Ocean